Students hear famous themes from three pieces of classical music, the composers, and the stories associated with the music. They learn about the string family of instruments, and especially the violin, as the artist shows them the actual instrument and plays for them. The unit culminates in a live performance by a string trio, playing some of the themes the students have learned.

Students are shown the violin, learn its parts and how it’s played, and hear its sound and its range. Each student has a turn to come to the front of the class and play a tune with the artist, while the other students color a picture of a violin to take home.

Students learn the term “composer” and are introduced to Edvard Grieg and his Peer Gynt Suite. Two contrasting songs from the suite are played, both on the violin and on a recording. Students discuss the contrasting moods and have a chance to dance to the troll music.

Students see pictures of the stringed instruments of the orchestra and discuss their similarities and differences. Then they hear the story of the Swan Lake ballet and look at a picture book of the story of the ballet. Then as students listen to the orchestral selection, they will be encouraged to imagine themselves as the Swan Queen, the prince, a swan, or a ballerina.